Food Access Experience Survey
Welcome! The Food Access Experience Survey is an anonymous 7-question survey designed for individuals who visit food pantries and meal sites. Neighbor feedback on accessibility, timing, and product variety will help us understand how well we’re meeting community needs. County-level results will highlight areas of success and opportunities for improvement, ensuring we can better serve everyone. A $10 gift card will be provided to survey participants.
How does it work?
Surveys are available online & on paper at participating food pantries. Participants can scan a QR code from the flyer, follow a link from pantry social media or websites, or participate in person at the pantry. A $10 gift card will be provided to survey participants.
What types of questions are included?
The survey includes questions about overall satisfaction with pantry services, accessibility and wait times, food variety, barriers to accessing the pantry or meal site, and suggestions for improvement.
Is the survey available in multiple languages?
Yes. We are providing the survey in the most commonly spoken languages in Maine, including French, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, and Somali. Staff and volunteers can assist if someone needs help understanding the form.
What will happen with the results?
Reported results of the survey will be provided to all participating partners. The information is collected at a county level. We will use the findings to:
- Identify areas for improvement
- Ensure we’re meeting the needs of our community
- Share general trends (not individual responses) with staff, volunteers, and community partners
Who do I contact with questions about this survey?
You can speak to your Community Resource Representative or contact the Good Shepherd Food Bank Research team at Research@gsfb.org.
How are we protecting the privacy of participants?
All survey responses are anonymous. We are not collecting names or identifying information of people or pantries. Data will be reported in summary form only.
How long will the survey take to complete?
It’s designed to be short and accessible—about 5 to 10 minutes total.
Is there an incentive for people who fill out the survey?
Yes, the first 80 participants will receive a $10 gift card of their choice. If they fill out the survey online, this will be a digital gift card. If they fill it out in person, they will receive a physical gift card.
Survey!
Translated Survey Flyers
Downloadable Post Cards
If you’re in need of food, please visit our Food Map to find a food site near you: